Introduction: ESP8266 Web Server (Without Arduino)

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About: Author, Blogger, Electronics Enthusiast and Entrepreneur. For complete Electronics Projects and Tutorials go to: https://RandomNerdTutorials.com

Hey there,

A few weeks ago I've created a project with an ESP8266 called: ESP8266 Web Server without an Arduino.

That's exactly what you're going to build, if you follow all the steps in this Instructable.

It's amazing what you can do with this $4 WiFi Module.

The video below shows the final result of this project.

Step 1: Components

This project requires just a few components:

  • 1x ESP8266 (eBay link)
  • 1x FTDI Programmer (eBay link)
  • 2x LEDs
  • 2x Resistors
  • 1x Breadboard
  • Some jumper wires

Step 2: Flashing NodeMCU

For this project your need to flash your ESP8266 with NodeMCU.

Follow the circuit presented in this step and use the NodeMCU flasher to flash NodeMCU.

Flashing your ESP8266 with a new firmware is pretty straight forward, but if you need an in depth tutorial follow this blog post: How to Flash NodeMCU Firmware on the ESP8266.

Step 3: Uploading Lua Code

You need to upload this code into your ESP8266. Click here to do download the Lua code.

To upload Lua code to your ESP8266 I highly recommend using the ESPlorer IDE that you can download here.

Note: Your file should be named “init.lua“ and you need to replace line #2 with your network details

Step 4: Final Circuit

Follow the schematics in this step to build your web server.

Step 5: Accessing Your Web Server (Demonstration)

To access your web server type in the URL bar your ESP8266 IP address.

And below you can watch the final result!

No you can control your LEDs (or any output) with your smartphone, tablet or laptop.

I hope you enjoyed this project, if you want to learn more about the ESP8266 check out my eBook: Home Automation Using ESP8266 or visit my blog.

Thanks for reading,

-Rui from Random Nerd Tutorials